As something normally completed by skilled tradespersons, plastering is the covering of interior walls or plasterboard with a thin, smooth coat of plaster before finishing the walls with paint or wallpaper. While experts normally complete plastering, it is possible with some prior research and the correct set of tools to plaster in your own home successfully. It is important to remember that plastering is a skill, and the results of your first attempts will not compare with a time served veteran, keep your expectations at an appropriate level. We’ll investigate the plastering process and list the tools you’ll need to give you the best chance of success.

The Essential Plastering Tools

Plastering isn’t something completed quickly, so give yourself plenty of time to prepare and complete the tasks; it’s also quite messy, so protect floors with plenty of protective sheeting. The main specialised plastering tools are –

• Plastering Trowel – a key tool used to apply the plaster, a good quality stainless steel trowel that feels comfortable is the recommendation.
• Hawk Board – this tool holds the wet plaster; both wood and plaster examples are equally acceptable.
• Bucket Trowel – specially designed to move wet plaster from mixing buckets to the hawk board.
• Power Mixer – paddle attachments for a power drill work well but hiring a specialised plastering machine is also an option.
• Paint Brush – a new good quality brush is essential for keeping edges and surfaces clean and wet.

Besides these specialised plastering tools, you’ll need a snap-off knife, spray bottle, and small brush alongside all the appropriate PPE equipment to keep you safe; goggles, a dust mask, and protective gloves are the minimum requirement.

The Steps of The Plastering Process

After making sure the area is cleared of obstructions and covered with sufficient protective sheeting, the process follows these steps –

• Prepare the surface by cleaning it thoroughly, removing any loose particles that may hinder applying the plaster; if working with new plasterboard, cover any joints with plaster tape.
• Apply the PVA adhesive to the clean surface; this will hold the plaster to the wall; when diluting the PVA, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Using clean buckets, mix the plaster again, following the instructions carefully, adding clean water steadily to ensure a smooth mixture.
• When the PVA has a tacky feel, apply the plaster using the Plastering trowel; start with small amounts until you feel confident about increasing the amount.
• Allow the first coat to dry for around 20 minutes before smoothing out any bumps or imperfections and applying the second coat.
• Once the plaster has dried slightly, finish with the trowel edge and spray bottle until you’re happy with the finished effect.

This list is a basic outline, take some time to do some research; there is a wealth of helpful online how-to guides for the budding amateur plasterer; focus on the mixing instructions as this is crucial to a successful outcome.

I hope this short piece has given you a great starting point to successful plastering; with careful preparation, the right tools, and a can-do attitude, you may even surprise yourself and open the door to a new potential profession.